Lions Club Donates 5-foot Teddy Bear

March 19, 1999

WINDSOR — Mary's Place, a center for grieving children and their families, has received a 5-foot-tall teddy bear from the Windsor Lions Club.

``Too often, children are the forgotten grievers,'' said Mary Keane, the center's executive director. ``We created Mary's Place to provide a trusting atmosphere for children and teens who have experienced the death of a significant person.''

The center is filled with stuffed animals, colorful toys and puppets. It also has a kid-size kitchen to introduce conversation about everyday life at home. Counselors at the center use these environments to show boys and girls that they are not alone, help them understand their feelings and build self-esteem.

The Lions Club picked Mary's Place as the destination for the teddy bear to provide enjoyment to children in need. The club has been performing charitable services in Windsor for 50 years.

Mary's Place is at 6 Poquonock Ave. More information about the center can be obtained by calling (860) 688-9621.